Processo para a isomerização de uma matéria-prima que contém ácidos graxos lineares insaturados, ésteres alquílicos de ácidos graxos insaturados ou suas misturas

摘要

The present invention generally relates to a process for the skeletal isomerization of unsaturated linear fatty acids and/or alkyl esters thereof to their branched counterparts. Said skeletal isomerization process comprises contacting said unsaturated linear fatty acids and/or alkyl esters thereof with at least one metal ion exchanged solid material catalyst. The present invention also relates to a process for the preparation of branched fatty acids and/or alkyl esters thereof from their straight chain counterparts. Finally, the invention also relates to various derivatives prepared from the branched fatty acids and/or alkyl esters prepared in accordance with the present invention.